should be free to support causes by any orderly means which do not disrupt the regular and essential operation of the institution.” B. Freedom From Discrimination Just as the University should not discriminate on grounds of “race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national or ethnic origin, or physical or mental disability in the conduct and operation of its educational programs and activities,” so should it not permit unlawful discrimination in any area of student life, such as University-managed housing, athletics, clubs, organizations, and other campus activities. Cases of discrimination involving academic affairs should be reported to the appropriate academic dean or to the Equal Rights and Opportunities Officer. Cases involving claims of sexual harassment should be handled according to the appropriate University policy. No student shall be expelled or refused admission to Hofstra University because he or she is unable to participate in any examination, study or work requirement because of his or her religious obligations and practices. However, all students are expected to complete all assignments and examinations. It is understood that no adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to any student who avails himself or herself of religious observances. The University, faculty, and student shall work together to achieve a reasonable accommodation concerning any conflicts between educational and religious obligations. C. Government by Law Students should live under a government of law, created, where appropriate, by joint action of students, faculty, and administration. The United States National Student Association has properly said: “The functioning of the educational community requires an awareness of mutual responsibility, understanding, trust, and respect in order that all its members actively contribute to the development of policies and programs; this purpose can best be achieved only through the continuous cooperation within the educational community ... These policies and procedures should in no case be subject to change without notice under the pressure of a particular situation, and the groups affected should participate at all times in their application.” 4 III. STUDENTS AS CAMPUS CITIZENS A. Student Participation in Institutional Government As constituents of the academic community, students should be free, individually and collectively, to express their views on issues of institutional policy and on matters of general interest to the student body. The student body should have clearly defi ned means of participating in the formulation and application of institutional policy affecting academic as well as student affairs. The role of the student government and both its general and specific responsibilities should be made explicit, and the actions of the student government within the areas of its jurisdiction should be reviewed only through orderly and prescribed procedures.5 The obstacles to such participation are large and should not be minimized. Nevertheless, ways should be found to permit significant student participation within the limits of attainable effectiveness.6 B. Student Government 1. The University should recognize and respect the Student Government Constitution. 4
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Codification of Policy, United States National Student Association, 1960-1961, p. 25 “Joint Statement on Rights and Freedoms of Students,” IV.B.2 6 Ibid., IV.C. See also Statement on Government of Colleges and Universities V: “On Student Status”; L. Joughlin, op. cit., 100-101 5